- Located within IBIMA-Plataforma BIONAND, this new facility enables innovative research in biomedicine and nanomedicine
The new radioactive facility, owned by the University of Málaga, has been inaugurated at the Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga and Nanomedicine Platform (IBIMA-Plataforma BIONAND), situated in Málaga TechPark.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the rector of the University of Málaga, Teodomiro López, alongside the scientific director of IBIMA-Plataforma BIONAND, Francisco José Tinahones, and the Rector’s Delegate for the Coordination of Services and Inspection, Sergio Cañete, who is also the lead researcher for the facility.
After the presentation, a guided tour was conducted, during which researchers María Luisa García and Mónica Feijoo explained the various pieces of equipment housed within the new Radioactive Facility.
Innovation for the Development of New Radiopharmaceuticals
This infrastructure will support groundbreaking research in biomedicine and nanomedicine, contributing to the development of new radiopharmaceuticals for treating various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiac conditions, inflammatory diseases, obesity, and diabetes, among others.
Furthermore, it will advance the understanding of the biological foundations of numerous pathologies through the application of molecular imaging techniques in animal models. This will facilitate the identification of biomarkers and the evaluation of the efficacy of new treatments.
The facility, with an investment of over €1.3 million, includes a Radiopharmacy classified as a cleanroom, enabling the production of new radiopharmaceuticals in a setting dedicated to preclinical research. Additionally, it features various rooms offering essential services for innovative research projects.
Cutting edge Equipment
Notable among the facility’s equipment is a multimodal molecular imaging suite (PET/SPECT/CT) for capturing images with both PET and SPECT radiopharmaceuticals, as well as computed tomography (CT) images. The facility also includes an X-ray area equipped with an irradiator for generating immunodeficient animal models and for therapeutic applications. Additionally, it features an in vivo optical imaging system (fluorescence and bioluminescence) combined with 2D X-ray imaging, enhancing the portfolio of preclinical imaging services provided by this major infrastructure.
The facility also includes a radiochemistry room for labeling molecules with various radioactive isotopes, including volatile isotopes, and a dedicated area for managing radioactive waste in compliance with regulations set by the Nuclear Safety Council.
Excellence
This facility has been integrated into the Nanoimaging Unit and forms part of the infrastructure for the production and characterization of nanomaterials, biomaterials, and systems in biomedicine (NANBIOSIS). It has been accredited by the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities as a Singular Scientific and Technological Infrastructure (ICTS), recognizing the excellence of its equipment and the services it offers.
The facility has been funded through various competitive public calls at the national and regional levels. It also boasts a highly skilled and specialized team, enabling research groups at both national and international levels to achieve significant advancements in their work.